Choosing the Best Starting Instrument: Trombone vs Saxophone

Deciding which brass instrument to start with is a highly personal decision, influenced by your musical interests and aspirations. Two instruments that frequently come up in discussions about starting brass instruments are the trombone and the saxophone. Both are brass instruments, but which one is better suited for a beginner?

Trombone: The More Challenging Instrument

As a lapsed trombone player, I can tell you that the trombone is a more challenging instrument to master. It requires significant physical effort, control, and breath management. Playing the trombone involves manipulating a slide, which can be difficult to control initially. However, the rewards of learning to play it are immense, as the trombone holds a unique place in various genres of music, particularly in big band, Dixieland jazz, and classical music.

Saxophone: More Common in Popular Music

In the world of popular music, the saxophone is more commonly found. It is highly versatile, capable of expressing a wide range of emotions and styles. In jazz, the saxophone is the most prevalent, being featured prominently in virtually all subgenres. In classical music, while the saxophone is still relatively new to the orchestra, it has been gaining acceptance and is now used in several compositions.

Which Instrument is Better for You?

Deciding whether to start with the trombone or the saxophone ultimately depends on your musical goals and the genres you aspire to play. If jazz is your primary interest, you might want to lean towards the saxophone. According to most music pedagogues and professionals, about 80% of jazz music features the saxophone. While the trombone is an essential instrument in jazz, you would find it incorporated in a broader range of genres, including smooth jazz, rock, pop, and even RB.

On the other hand, if classical music or specific genres like Dixieland jazz are more your cup of tea, the trombone might be a better choice. It is a common instrument in classical repertoire and has been a staple in many orchestral and ensemble pieces.

The Versatility Factor

The saxophone is highly versatile, allowing you to explore multiple genres and styles. Saxophonists often double on other brass instruments like clarinet or flute, adding a richer dimension to their musical palette. In comparison, the trombone is less likely to be doubled with other instruments, meaning your options are more limited in terms of genre diversification.

In conclusion, the choice between the trombone and the saxophone is not purely one of preference. It is influenced by your musical background, aspirations, and the genres you wish to explore. Whether you are drawn to the complexity and versatility of the saxophone or the tradition and deepen involvement in the trombone, both instruments offer unique opportunities for artistic expression and personal growth. The journey of learning these instruments can be both challenging and rewarding, depending on your chosen path.